Administrative and Operations Support Manager (PSE Directorate)

Administrative and Operations Support Manager (PSE Directorate) drives operational excellence across the Directorate by leading a matrixed administrative team, executing cross-functional improvement initiatives, and serving as the primary liaison between the Directorate and Lab-level committees. The role translates evolving Lab policies and processes into clear, actionable practices; mentors administrative professionals; and advises senior leadership on operational matters to align day-to-day execution with strategic goals.

Key responsibilities

People leadership (matrixed administrative team)

• Lead and develop a matrixed administrative support team: workforce planning; interviewing and hiring recommendations; onboarding and training; work assignment; performance management; recognition; and corrective action

• Set clear expectations, coach and mentor staff, address complaints, and resolve problems to build a high-performing team

• Foster a collaborative environment that promotes open communication, sharing of best practices, and teamwork across administrative staff

• Resolve conflicts effectively while maintaining a fair, respectful work environment

Operations leadership and strategy

• Lead operations improvement projects: define scope, develop plans, allocate resources, execute, and report outcomes

• Collaborate with senior Directorate leaders to anticipate risks, resolve issues, and align operations with strategic objectives

• Monitor changes to Lab processes and policies; interpret, implement, and communicate updates across the Directorate

Stakeholder engagement and communication

• Serve as the Directorate’s point of contact to Lab-level committees and working groups, ensuring effective two-way communication

• Act as liaison for the Division Director(s) with internal and external stakeholders; prepare briefings, summaries, and sensitive correspondence

• Establish and maintain effective communication with administrative staff and their customers; align processes and build a strong community of practice across the administrative team

Process, policy, and change management

• Serve as the central point of contact for administrative operations, policy interpretation, and process guidance

• Evaluate administrative processes and workflows to identify inefficiencies; prioritize and implement meaningful improvements with clear success measures

• Lead change management efforts: design practical solutions, implement changes, sustain adoption, and standardize procedures

• Provide comprehensive administrative oversight for Division Office activities; maintain documentation and ensure compliance with Lab policies

Analysis and Execution

• Use sound judgment to analyze and synthesize information for effective decision-making on complex assignments

• Prioritize multiple, competing deadlines and drive timely issue resolution

Position Requirements

• Proven ability to represent the organization with confidence and credibility; strong relationship-building and interpersonal communication skills across all levels

• Leadership and mentorship experience with administrative professionals; effectiveness in a matrixed environment

• Demonstrated experience in business operations and planning, including problem definition, program formulation, and implementation at a directorate or division level

• Track record of questioning existing processes, evaluating alternatives, and implementing practical solutions to improve efficiency and effectiveness

• Strong independent problem-solving and decision-making skills; ability to prioritize and execute with minimal direction in a fast-paced setting

• Excellent oral and written communication skills; strong stakeholder engagement skills with internal and external audiences

• Exceptional organizational skills with attention to detail, ingenuity, and creativity

• Proficiency with Microsoft 365 (Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Teams) and database/workflow tools; ability to quickly learn Argonne’s administrative systems and processes

• Ability to manage a workload with numerous conflicting deadlines; anticipate problems and drive solutions

• Knowledge of office management practices and administrative policy interpretation

• Ability to model Argonne’s Core Values: Impact, Respect, Safety, Integrity, and Teamwork

Preferred qualifications:

• Experience with administrative functions, policies, and procedures at a